Grace P. Durso, beloved wife, mother

Grace P. Durso, 96, of Rehoboth Beach, passed away peacefully accompanied by her family Friday, June 23, 2023. She was a beloved and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend.

Grace was born Palm Sunday, April 10, 1927, in Freeland, Pa. Grace was the youngest of eight children, born to Louis and Grace Ferdinand. She attended Foster High School and West Chester University, where she studied education. Grace always wanted to own a gift shop and went into business with her husband, Dan, and took over the Tussie Mussie, turning it into a thriving gift and furniture store.

Grace met the love of her life, Daniel Durso, as children and was re-introduced through the help of her brother Louis Ferdinand, who was Dan’s best friend. The couple married in November 1956, and their daughter, the light of their lives, was born three years later. The couple resided in Reading, Pa., until 2001 when they relocated to Rehoboth Beach to enjoy retirement.

Grace was involved in all school activities, and was a Brownie and Girl Scout leader, avid golfer, and best baker in the neighborhood. 

Grace is survived by her daughter, Denise and son-in-law Steve Carney of Rehoboth Beach; her granddaughters, Megan and Taylor Costanzo of Manhattan, N.Y.; and the newest member of the family, Audrey, the rescue dog. 

In lieu of flowers, make donations to Home of the Brave Foundation, 6632 Sharps Road, Milford, DE 19963, homeofthebravefdn.org; or an organization of choice. 

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, Sept.28, at St. Jude the Apostle Church, Lewes.